U.S. patent application number 09/977981 was filed with the patent office on 2002-09-12 for apparatus and method for selling a ticket to an event and/or to a portion of an event or venue.
Invention is credited to Joao, Raymond Anthony.
Application Number | 20020128922 09/977981 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26937675 |
Filed Date | 2002-09-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020128922 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Joao, Raymond Anthony |
September 12, 2002 |
Apparatus and method for selling a ticket to an event and/or to a
portion of an event or venue
Abstract
An apparatus and a method for selling a ticket and/or a ticket
option, including a memory device for storing information regarding
at least one of a ticket for an event and a ticket option for an
event, a processor for processing at least one of a ticket request
and a ticket option request for at least one of a ticket for an
event and a ticket option for an event, wherein the processor
processes the at least one of a ticket request and a ticket option
request in conjunction with the information stored in the memory
device, wherein the processor generates at least one of a ticket
availability message and a ticket option availability message, and
a transmitter for transmitting the least one of a ticket
availability message and a ticket option availability message to a
communication device associated with a user.
Inventors: |
Joao, Raymond Anthony;
(Yonkers, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RAYMOND A. JOAO, ESQ.
122 BELLEVUE PLACE
YONKERS
NY
10703
US
|
Family ID: |
26937675 |
Appl. No.: |
09/977981 |
Filed: |
October 15, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60246051 |
Nov 6, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/045 20130101;
G07B 15/00 20130101; G06Q 30/0613 20130101; G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G07F 17/42 20130101; G06Q 30/00 20130101; G06Q 10/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/26 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An apparatus for selling a ticket and/or a ticket option,
comprising: a memory device for storing information regarding at
least one of a ticket for an event and a ticket option for an
event; a processor for processing at least one of a ticket request
and a ticket option request for at least one of a ticket for an
event and a ticket option for an event, wherein said processor
processes said at least one of a ticket request and a ticket option
request in conjunction with said information stored in said memory
device, wherein said processor generates at least one of a ticket
availability message and a ticket option availability message; and
a transmitter for transmitting said at least one of a ticket
availability message and a ticket option availability message to a
communication device associated with a user.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a receiver for
receiving at least one of said ticket request and said ticket
option request.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein said receiver receives a
response from the user.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said response contains
information regarding a request to purchase at least one of at
least one of said ticket and said ticket option
5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said processor processes said
response and at least one of processes a transaction involving at
least one of said ticket and said ticket option and consummates a
transaction involving at least one of said ticket and said ticket
option.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said processor effects a
financial transaction involving at least one of said ticket and
said ticket option.
7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein said processor at least one of
monitors, records, and stores, information regarding the
transaction involving at least one of said ticket and said ticket
option.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said processor determines
whether a user desires to purchase at least one of the ticket and
the ticket option.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said processor determines an
option price for the ticket option.
10. The apparatus of claim 11 wherein said processor generates a
notification message which can contain information regarding at
least one of a ticket sold and a ticket option sold.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said transmitter transmits
said notification message to a communication device associated with
at least one of a user, a ticket holder and a ticket issuer.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said apparatus operates at
least one of on, over, or in conjunction with, the Internet, the
World Wide Web, a telephone network, a telecommunication network, a
digital communication network, a satellite communication network, a
wireless communication network, a personal communication services
network, a broadband communication network, and a bluetooth
communication network.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said communication device is
at least one of a computer, a computer system, a group of
computers, a telephone, a personal computer, a wireless telephone,
a wireless communication device, a personal digital assistant, a
video telephone, a personal communication device, a wireless
device, a handheld device, a palm-top device, a kiosk, a public
kiosk, a public computer terminal, and an automated teller
machine.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one of a ticket
availability message and a ticket option availability message,
contains information regarding at least one of a ticket, tickets,
the location of the ticket, the location of the tickets, the price
of the ticket, the price of the tickets, at least one of a video
clip and video image of the view from the ticket location, at least
one of a video clip and video image of the view from the location
of the tickets, and at least one of a term and a condition for
selling at least one the ticket and tickets.
15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said notification message
contains information regarding at least one of the ticket sold, the
tickets sold, the ticket option sold, and the ticket options sold,
and a price received for at least one of the ticket, the tickets
sold, the ticket option sold, and the ticket options sold.
16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said at least one said ticket
availability message and said ticket option availability message is
at least one of a beeper message, a pager message, an instant
messaging message, a telephone call, a telephone message, an e-mail
message, and an electronic data transmission.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said notification message is
at least one of a beeper message, a pager message, an instant
messaging message, a telephone call, a telephone message, an e-mail
message, and an electronic data transmission.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein said transmitter transmits at
least one of ticket information, ticket option information,
electronic ticket information, and electronic ticket option
information, to the communication device associated with the
user.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the communication device
associated with the user at least one of outputs, prints, and
displays said at least one of at least one of ticket information,
ticket option information, electronic ticket information, and
electronic ticket option information.
20. A method for selling a ticket and/or a ticket option,
comprising: storing information regarding at least one of a ticket
for an event and a ticket option for an event; processing at least
one of a ticket request and a ticket option request for at least
one of a ticket for an event and a ticket option for an event;
processing said at least one of a ticket request and a ticket
option request in conjunction with said stored information;
generating at least one of a ticket availability message and a
ticket option availability message; and transmitting said at least
one of a ticket availability message and a ticket option
availability message to a communication device associated with a
user.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/246,051, filed Nov. 6,
2000, and entitled "APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SELLING A TICKET TO AN
EVENT AND/OR TO A PORTION OF AN EVENT OR VENUE", the subject matter
of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for selling a ticket to an event or venue and/or to a portion of an
event or venue and, in particular, the present invention pertains
to an apparatus and method for selling or reselling a ticket to an
event or venue and/or to a portion of an event or venue which can
facilitate a sale or resale of a ticket for an event or venue or
for a portion of an event or venue.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Sporting events, theatrical events, entertainment events,
and/or any other events, to which tickets for admission are sold or
otherwise exchanged in commerce or otherwise, are enjoyed by
millions of individuals each year. It is commonly known that
tickets to the above-described events or venues are or can be
expensive. In many instances, individuals purchase tickets and
either do not utilize them or only utilize them for a portion of
the respective event of venue. In these instances, the seats or
venue for which the tickets correspond go unutilized by the ticket
holder for the entire event or portion of the event, whichever the
case may be.
[0004] An example of the above is when a season ticket holder of
baseball tickets, basketball tickets, football tickets, or hockey
tickets, fails to utilize his or her tickets for every game, and/or
when the holder of a ticket(s) leaves a game prior to its
completion or conclusion. Similarly, season ticket holders for
theatre tickets, movie tickets, etc., can experience the same
non-use of their respective tickets.
[0005] Unfortunately, once tickets are sold by a ticket office,
ticket issuer, event sponsor, or other ticket seller or ticket
dispenser, the ticket holder must either utilize the ticket(s),
resell the ticket(s) prior to the start or beginning of the event,
utilize the ticket(s) for only a portion of the event, or let the
ticket(s) go used completely.
[0006] The value of tickets which go completely unused or which go
only partially used can be very great and can represent a
substantial amount of lost or foregone revenues for ticket holders
who are unable to utilize tickets and/or who only utilize tickets
for a portion of an event or for a portion of a venue.
[0007] There appears to be no apparatus or method in the prior art
which can allow a ticket holder to recoup revenues for unused
tickets and/or tickets which are only utilized for a portion of an
event or for a portion of a venue.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or venue and/or to a
portion of an event or venue which overcomes the shortfalls of the
prior art. The present invention also pertains to an apparatus and
method for selling a ticket option to an event or venue and/or to a
portion of an event or venue.
[0009] The present invention also provides an apparatus and method
which can facilitate a resale of a ticket for an event or venue or
for a portion of an event or venue. The present invention can also
provide an apparatus and method which can facilitate the resale of
a used ticket or tickets.
[0010] The present invention can also provide and apparatus and
method which can provide notification of the availability of a
ticket(s) for sale or resale. The present invention can also
provide and apparatus and method which can provide notification of
the availability of a buyer for a ticket(s) for an event or venue
or for a portion of an event or venue.
[0011] The present invention can also provide information for
selling and/or trading options to purchase or to sell any of the
tickets described herein.
[0012] The apparatus can include a central processing computer or
server computer for processing ticket information and/or ticket
transaction information, any number of user computers or user
communication devices via which the user or individual can
communicate with the central processing computer, and any number of
ticket issuer computers or ticket issuer communication devices via
which a ticket issuer can communicate with the central processing
computer.
[0013] Any number of central processing computers, user
communication devices, and/or the ticket issuer communication
devices, can be utilized in conjunction with the present
invention.
[0014] The central processing computers, the user communication
devices, and/or the ticket issuer communication devices, can
communicate with any other central processing computers, user
communication devices, and/or ticket issuer communication devices,
over any suitable communication network or system, including, but
not limited to the Internet, the World Wide Web, a telephone
network, a telecommunication network, a digital communication
network, a satellite communication network, a wireless
communication network, a personal communication services network, a
broadband communication network, a bluetooth communication network,
and/or any other communication network and/or system.
[0015] The apparatus and method of the present invention can be
utilized for selling and/or reselling a ticket(s) to an event or
venue and/or to a portion of an event or venue. The present
invention can also provide a clearinghouse for previously purchased
tickets and/or tickets which have been utilized for only a portion
of an event.
[0016] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
process a user's or an individual's request for a ticket or tickets
and identify any ticket or tickets which may satisfy the user's or
the individual's request.
[0017] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also generate a ticket availability report or message which can
contain information regarding any available ticket or tickets along
with any information regarding same and/or corresponding to same.
The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can also
generate a notification message for the ticket holder in order to
notify him or her of the sale or resale of the ticket or
tickets.
[0018] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
process any request to purchase any ticket or tickets and/or
consummate any transactions involving any ticket or tickets
described herein. The apparatus and/or the central processing
computer can also effectuate payment to a ticket holder, payment
from a user or an individual, and/or payment to any third party
facilitators or ticket issuers.
[0019] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also provide a ticket and/or ticket information in hard copy form
or in electronic form.
[0020] The present invention can be utilized in order to purchase a
ticket or tickets for an event and/or in order to upgrade a ticket
or tickets during an event and/or prior to the conclusion or
completion of the event.
[0021] The present invention can also be utilized in order to sell
or resell options for tickets for any of the events or venues
described herein. The present invention can also be utilized in
order to price and/or define any terms of any options for any
ticket or tickets.
[0022] The apparatus and method of the present invention can also
be utilized in order to provide notification of the availability of
a ticket or tickets for sale or resale. The apparatus and/or the
central processing computer can process a respective request for a
ticket(s) in conjunction with available ticket(s). The apparatus
and/or the central processing computer can also process a
respective request for a ticket option(s) in conjunction with
available ticket option(s).
[0023] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also generate a ticket availability notification message which can
include information regarding an available ticket or tickets. The
apparatus and/or the central processing computer can also transmit
the ticket availability notification message to an individual or a
user desirous of obtaining ticket(s) or ticket option(s). The
apparatus and/or the central processing computer can also generate
a ticket buyer availability message and transmit same to a ticket
holder.
[0024] The apparatus and method of the present invention can also
provide notification of the availability of a buyer for a ticket or
tickets. The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
process information regarding a request for a ticket or tickets in
conjunction with information regarding a ticket or tickets which
are or which can be available for sale or resale. The apparatus
and/or the central processing computer can also generate a ticket
buyer availability notification message and transmit same to a
ticket holder.
[0025] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also generate a ticket availability message and transmit same to
user or individual interested in purchasing a ticket or tickets.
The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can also
provide a ticket holder with contact information for the user or
individual.
[0026] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also monitor, record, and/or store, data and/or information
regarding any and/or all of the transactions, sales, re-sales,
and/or purchases, for any ticket(s) and/or ticket option(s) which
can be facilitated and/or effected via the present invention.
[0027] The apparatus and/or the central processing computer can
also administer and/or maintain a financial account(s) for, or on
behalf of, any of the users, individuals, ticket holders, ticket
issuers, and/or any other party or entity who or which utilizes the
present invention.
[0028] The apparatus and method of the present invention can also
be utilized to provide for the bidding for, and/or the auctioning
off of, any of the herein-described tickets and/or ticket
options.
[0029] The present invention can also be utilized in conjunction
with intelligent agents, software agents, mobile agents, and/or
related technologies. The apparatus of the present invention can
also be programmed to be self-activating and/or activated
automatically. The apparatus of the present invention can also be
programmed in order to automatically generate and/or transmit
e-mail messages, electronic message transmissions, electronic
notification transmissions, electronic catalogs, electronic
coupons, between any of the users, individuals, entities, and/or
parties, which utilize the present invention.
[0030] The present invention can also utilize electronic commerce
technologies and security methods, techniques and technologies.
[0031] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue.
[0032] It is another object of the present invention to to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to a
portion of an event or venue.
[0033] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket option to an
event or venue and/or to a portion of an event or venue.
[0034] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can facilitate a resale of a ticket for an event or
venue or for a portion of an event or venue.
[0035] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can facilitate a resale of a used ticket or
tickets.
[0036] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can provide notification of the
availability of a ticket(s) for sale or resale.
[0037] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can provide notification of the availability of a
buyer for a ticket(s) for an event or venue or for a portion of an
event or venue.
[0038] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which provide information for selling and/or trading options
to purchase or to sell a ticket or tickets.
[0039] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can operate on, over, and/or in conjunction
with, any communication network or system.
[0040] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can operate on, over, and/or in conjunction with, a
wireless communication network or system.
[0041] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can operate on, over, and/or in conjunction with the
Internet and/or the World Wide Web.
[0042] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can operate on, over, and/or in conjunction
with wireless Internet and/or the wireless World Wide Web network
or system.
[0043] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can provide a clearinghouse for previously purchased
tickets and/or tickets which have been utilized for only a portion
of an event.
[0044] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can process an individual's request for a ticket or
tickets and identify any ticket or tickets which may satisfy the
request.
[0045] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can generate a ticket availability report
or message containing information regarding an available ticket or
tickets.
[0046] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can generate a notification message to provide
notification to a ticket holder of a sale or resale of a ticket or
tickets.
[0047] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can provide notification of the availability of a
ticket or tickets for sale or resale.
[0048] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can process a request for a ticket(s) in
conjunction with available ticket(s).
[0049] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can process a request for a ticket option(s) in
conjunction with available ticket option(s).
[0050] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can generate a ticket availability notification message
which can contain information regarding an available ticket or
tickets.
[0051] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can transmit a ticket availability
notification message to an individual desirous of obtaining a
ticket(s) or a ticket option(s).
[0052] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can generate a ticket buyer availability message
and/or transmit same to a ticket holder.
[0053] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can provide notification of the availability of a buyer
for a ticket or tickets.
[0054] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can process any request to purchase a
ticket or tickets.
[0055] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can consummate a transaction involving a ticket or
tickets.
[0056] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can effectuate payment to a ticket holder, payment from
an individual, and/or payment to a third party facilitator or a
ticket issuer.
[0057] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can provide a ticket and/or ticket
information in hard copy form.
[0058] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can provide a ticket and/or ticket information in
electronic form.
[0059] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can be utilized in order to purchase a ticket or
tickets for an event and/or in order to upgrade a ticket or tickets
during an event.
[0060] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can be utilized in order to price and/or
define terms of a ticket option.
[0061] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can monitor, record, and/or store, data and/or
information regarding transactions, sales, re-sales, and/or
purchases, of tickets and/or ticket options.
[0062] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can administer and/or maintain a financial account(s)
for, or on behalf of, any of the users, individuals, ticket
holders, ticket issuers, and/or any other party or entity who or
which utilizes the present invention.
[0063] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can be utilized to provide for the bidding
for, and/or the auctioning off of, any of the herein-described
tickets and/or ticket options.
[0064] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can be utilized in conjunction with intelligent
agents, software agents, mobile agents, and/or related
technologies.
[0065] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue which can be programmed to be self-activating and/or
activated automatically.
[0066] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to
an event or venue which can be programmed in order to automatically
generate and/or transmit e-mail messages, electronic message
transmissions, electronic notification transmissions, electronic
catalogs, electronic coupons, between any of the users,
individuals, entities, and/or parties, which utilize the present
invention.
[0067] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for selling a ticket or tickets to an event
or venue which can utilize electronic commerce technologies and
security methods, techniques and technologies.
[0068] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent to those skilled in the art upon a review of the
Description of the Preferred Embodiment taken in conjunction with
the Drawings which follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0069] In the Drawings:
[0070] FIG. 1 illustrates the apparatus of the present invention,
in block diagram form;
[0071] FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus of FIG. 1, in flow diagram form;
[0072] FIG. 3 illustrates another preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus of FIG. 1, in flow diagram form; and
[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus of FIG. 1, in flow diagram form.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0074] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for selling a ticket to an event or venue and/or to a portion of an
event or venue.
[0075] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for
selling a ticket to an event or venue and/or to a portion of an
event or venue which can facilitate a resale of a ticket for an
event or venue or for a portion of an event or venue. The present
invention can also provide information for or regarding selling
and/or trading options to purchase or to sell any of the tickets
described herein.
[0076] The present invention can also provide and apparatus and
method which can provide notification of the availability of a
ticket(s) for sale or resale. The present invention can also
provide and apparatus and method which can provide notification of
the availability of a buyer for a ticket(s) for an event or venue
or for a portion of an event or venue.
[0077] As defined herein, the term "ticket" or "tickets" refer to
any tickets, conventional tickets, physical tickets, electronic
tickets, digital tickets, licenses, invitations, and/or any other
mode or means, for allowing and/or permitting entry into,
attendance at or in, and/or any other presence at or in, an event
or venue, a sporting event or venue, a theatrical event or venue, a
movie event or venue, an entertainment event or venue, a concert
event or venue, and/or any other event or venue for which tickets
may be sold or otherwise offered.
[0078] As defined herein, the terms "event" or "events" refer to
any event, sporting event(s), baseball game(s), basketball game(s),
football game(s), hockey game(s), tennis event(s), swimming
event(s), skiing event(s), athletic event(s), athletic competition
event(s), Olympic event(s), and/or any game(s), event(s),
tournament, and/or competition(s), theatrical event or performance,
movie event or performance, entertainment event or performance,
concert event or performance, and/or any other event or performance
for tickets may be sold or otherwise offered.
[0079] As defined herein, the term "venue" or "venue" refer to any
stadium(s), arena(s), theatre(s), movie theatre(s), concert
hall(s), museum(s), performance hall(s), indoor stadium(s), indoor
arena(s), indoor theatre(s), indoor movie theatre(s), indoor
concert hall(s), indoor museum(s), indoor performance hall(s),
outdoor stadium(s), outdoor arena(s), outdoor theatre(s), outdoor
movie theatre(s), outdoor concert hall(s), outdoor museum(s),
outdoor performance hall(s), and/or any other place(s) or
location(s) where any of the herein-described and/or herein-defined
events can be held, take place, and/or occur.
[0080] As defined herein, the terms "user", "individual", or the
plurals of same, refer to any user, users, individual, individuals,
ticket owner, ticket owners, ticket holder, ticket holders, ticket
seller, ticket seller, ticket buyer, ticket buyers, ticket broker,
ticket brokers, ticket issuer, ticket issuers, and/or any other
individuals or entities who or which utilize the apparatus and
method of the present invention.
[0081] As used herein, the terms "ticket issuer", "ticket broker",
"ticket agent", "event producer", "event sponsor", "organization",
or the plurals of same refer to any ticket issuer(s), ticket
issuing organization(s), ticket broker(s), ticket agent(s), event
organizer(s), event producer(s), event sponsor(s), and/or any other
organization(s) responsible for holding, offering, and/or providing
any of the herein-described events and/or venues.
[0082] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter and teachings of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Serial No. 60/246,051, filed Nov. 6, 2000, which teaches and
discloses an apparatus and method for selling a ticket to an event
and/or to a portion of an event or venue.
[0083] FIG. 1 illustrates the apparatus of the present invention,
in block diagram form. The apparatus of FIG. 1 is designated
generally by the reference numeral 100. With reference to FIG. 1,
the apparatus 100 includes a central processing computer or server
computer 10 for processing ticket information and/or ticket
transaction information, any number of user computers or
communication devices 20 (hereinafter "user communication device
20") via which the user or individual can communicate with the
central processing computer 10, and any number of ticket issuer
computers or ticket issuer communication devices (hereinafter
"ticket issuer communication device 30") via which a ticket issuer
can communicate with the central processing computer 10.
[0084] Each of the central processing computers 10, the user
communication devices 20, and/or the ticket issuer communication
devices 30, can include a central processing unit (CPU), a random
access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), an input device, a
display device, a receiver, a transmitter, a database, and an
output device.
[0085] The database(s) of the central processing computer(s) 10 can
include any and/or all of the data and/or information needed and/or
desired for performing all of the processing routines and/or
functionality described herein as being provided by the apparatus
100.
[0086] The database of the central processing computer 10 can
contain data and/or information regarding events, sporting events,
games, tournaments, performances, theatrical performances, movie
performances, concerts, and/or any other events described herein,
schedules of the respective events, dates of the respective events,
and/or times of the respective events. The database of the central
processing computer 10 can also contain data and/or information
regarding delays, cancellations, and/or rescheduling, of any of the
herein-described events.
[0087] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding the players, athletes,
actors, performers, and/or other participants, in any of the
herein-described events. The database of the central processing
computer 10 can also contain data and/or information regarding the
location and/or venue of any of the herein-described events as well
as directions to the respective venues.
[0088] The database of the central processing computer can also
include information regarding the tickets to the events or venues
which can include, but which is not limited to, the location of the
seat or seats for which the ticket or tickets correspond, the price
or prices of the respective tickets, information regarding whether
the ticket of tickets are owned or held by season ticket holders,
ticket holders of a ticket plan or package, and/or regular ticket
holders, the usage habits of the holders of the respective ticket
or tickets, information regarding a non-use or planned non-use of a
ticket or tickets by a ticket holder, information regarding a
probability of a non-use of a ticket or tickets by a respective
ticket holder, resale prices charged by respective ticket holders,
including premiums charges above face value, face value, and/or
discounts off of face value.
[0089] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding contact information for
or regarding any of the ticket issuers described herein. The
database of the central processing computer 10 can also contain
data and/or information regarding contact information for or
regarding any of the ticket holders or ticket owners described
herein.
[0090] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding the prices of the various
tickets described herein, face value of the various tickets,
location of the seats corresponding to the various tickets, a video
clip or video picture of the view from the respective tickets,
availability of tickets for resale, resale price or prices of the
tickets, options to buy any of the tickets described herein, prices
for any of the options to buy any of the tickets described herein.
The database of the central processing computer 10 can also contain
data and/or information for determining option prices for any of
the options for any of the tickets described herein.
[0091] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding a prorated price or
prices and/or price reductions for any of the herein-described
tickets during the course of an event or use of a venue, and/or for
any remaining portion of an event or venue. The database of the
central processing computer 10 can also contain data and/or
information regarding price reductions for tickets sold or resold
during an event.
[0092] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding a ticket holders
propensities to leave an event or venue early and/or prior to event
completion of conclusion. The database of the central processing
computer 10 can also contain data and/or information regarding the
past prices charged by ticket holders for partially used
tickets.
[0093] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding ticket issuers, ticket
agents, ticket brokers, and/or any other provider of tickets for
any herein-described events. The database of the central processing
computer 10 can also contain contact information for or regarding
any of the respective ticket issuers, ticket agents, ticket
brokers, and/or any other provider of tickets.
[0094] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding contact information
regarding any of the herein-described users, individuals, ticket
issuers, and/or any other individuals or entities, who or which
utilize the present invention. The contact information can include
name, address, telephone number, facsimile number, e-mail address,
beeper number, pager number, cellular telephone number, wireless
communication device number, and/or any instant messaging contact
information.
[0095] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding ticket preferences and/or
ticket orders by or from any of the users or individuals who or
which desire to purchase tickets and/or tickets for remaining
portions of events. The database of the central processing computer
10 can also contain data and/or information regarding ticket
availability and/or tickets being offered for sale by or from any
of the users or individuals who or which desire to sell or resell
tickets and/or tickets for remaining portions of events.
[0096] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding prices of costs for
purchasing, selling and/or for reselling, any of the
herein-described tickets. The price or cost information can also
include prices for the tickets, premium prices above face value,
face values prices, discounts prices below face value, brokerage
charges or fees, agent charges or fees, commission charges or fees,
intermediary charges or fees, shipping charges or fees, handling
charges or fees, and/or any other charges and/or fees which can be
applied and/or incurred in purchasing and/or selling any of the
herein-described tickets.
[0097] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
include data and/or information regarding trading, bartering and/or
swapping of any of the herein-described tickets.
[0098] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding posted or asking prices
by sellers or resellers of any of the herein-described tickets,
offering prices by prospective buyers of any of the
herein-described tickets.
[0099] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information regarding ticket orders and/or
preferences by or of any of the prospective ticket purchasers
and/or purchasers for any tickets for any remaining portions of any
of the events described herein.
[0100] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain any data and/or information regarding financial accounts of
any of the users, individuals, ticket issuers, and/or any other
individual and/or entities, who or which utilize the apparatus and
method of the present invention. The database of the central
processing computer 10 can also contain any data and/or information
for performing and/or for effecting financial transactions by
and/or between any of the users, individuals, ticket issuers,
and/or any other individual and/or entities, who or which utilize
the apparatus and method of the present invention. The database of
the central processing computer 10 can also contain data and/or
information for performing electronic funds transfers, monetary
transfers, and/or monetary value transfers.
[0101] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information for conducting auctions and/or
bidding for or involving any of the tickets described herein.
[0102] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain data and/or information for processing electronic
signatures, digital signatures, digital representations of
handwritten signatures, and/or any other electronic identification
information. Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter and teachings of Applied Cryptography, Second
Edition, Bruce Schneier, Wiley, 1996.
[0103] The database of the central processing computer 10 can also
contain any programs, software programs, and/or algorithms, for
performing any of the processing routines and/or functionality
described herein as being performed by the central processing
computer 10, the apparatus 100, and/or any of the user
communication devices 20 and/or ticket issuer communication devices
30, described herein.
[0104] The respective database(s) of the user communication
device(s) 20, and/or the ticket issuer communication device(s), can
also include any of the data and/or information which is stored in
the database of the central processing computer(s) 10 any/or any
other data and/or information needed and/or desired for performing
any of the respective processing routines and/or functionality of
the respective computers or communication devices.
[0105] Any number of central processing computers 10, the user
communication devices 20, and/or the ticket issuer communication
devices 30, can be utilized in conjunction with the present
invention.
[0106] The central processing computers 10, the user communication
devices 20, and/or the ticket issuer communication devices 30, can
communicate with any other central processing computers 10, user
communication devices 20, and/or ticket issuer communication
devices 30, over any suitable communication network or system,
including, but not limited to the Internet, the World Wide Web, a
telephone network, a telecommunication network, a digital
communication network, a satellite communication network, a
wireless communication network, a personal communication services
network, a broadband communication network, a bluetooth
communication network, and/or any other communication network
and/or system.
[0107] Any of the central processing computers 10, the user
communication devices 20, and/or the ticket issuer communication
devices 30, can be any computer, computer system, group of
computers, telephones, personal computers, wireless telephones,
personal digital assistants, video telephones, personal
communication devices, wireless devices, handheld devices, palm-top
devices, and/or any other communication device(s) and/or
computer(s). Any of the user communication devices 20, the ticket
issuer communication devices 30, and/or any of the central
processing computers 10, can also be computers or communication
devices which are located at public locations such as at public
kiosks, automated teller machine (ATM), public computer terminals,
and/or at any other locations which are located at any suitable
location.
[0108] Any of the publicly accessible user communication devices
20, ticket issuer computers 30, and/or any of the central
processing computers 10, can be located at any of the
herein-described and/or herein-defined venues, stadiums, arenas,
theatres, movie theatres, concert halls, museums, performance
halls, indoor stadiums, indoor arenas, indoor theatres, indoor
movie theatres, indoor concert halls, indoor museums, indoor
performance halls, outdoor stadiums, outdoor arenas, outdoor
theatres, outdoor movie theatres, outdoor concert halls, outdoor
museums, outdoor performance halls, public buildings, parks,
private buildings, and/or any other location which is or can be
accessible to any of the herein-described users of the present
invention.
[0109] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention can be utilized for selling and/or reselling a
ticket(s) to an event or venue and/or to a portion of an event or
venue. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus 100, in flow diagram from.
[0110] In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the apparatus 100 can
be utilized to sell or resell a ticket or tickets to an event or
venue and/or to sell or resell a ticket to a portion or remaining
portion of an event or venue. For example, in a case involving a
season ticket holder or holder of a ticket package for sporting
events, baseball games, football games, etc., the holder can sell
or resell a ticket or tickets to any of the events or venues for
which he or she holds a ticket or tickets. This can occur, for
example, when a holder of a ticket or tickets will not be utilizing
the ticket of tickets and desires to sell or resell the respective
ticket or tickets in order to recoup the purchase price or a
portion thereof for the ticket or tickets.
[0111] The apparatus 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B can also be utilized in
order sell or resell a ticket or tickets for a portion or for a
remaining portion of an event or venue. For example, a holder of a
ticket or tickets to a sporting event, a baseball game, a football
game, etc., upon deciding to leave an event or game early or prior
to the completion or conclusion of the event or game can sell or
resell the ticket or tickets for his or her seat or seats and/or
can sell the right to use the seat or seats corresponding to the
ticket or tickets to another or to others in order to recoup a
portion price of the respective ticket or tickets. In this manner,
the apparatus 100 of Figure can provide a clearinghouse for
previously purchased tickets and/or tickets which have been
utilized for only a portion of an event.
[0112] At any time prior to the start of an event and/or at any
time during the event, a ticket holder or ticket owner can access
the central processing computer 10 via any of the user
communication devices 20 described herein. The ticket holder for
example can access the central processing computer can, for
example, a personal computer, a cellular or wireless communication
device, and/or a communication device located at a publicly located
kiosk. A ticket holder can access the central processing computer
10 prior to an event or game. A ticket holder can also access the
central processing computer 10 during an event or game.
[0113] The ticket holder can post or provide information regarding
the ticket or tickets which he or she desires to sell or resell,
the price which he or she is willing to sell or resell the ticket
or tickets for, as well as any other information related to the
tickets or tickets and/or related to any terms or conditions
regarding their sale, resale, and/or delivery.
[0114] In the case of an individual leaving an event or game early,
prior to its conclusion, and/or prior to its completion, the ticket
holder can access the central processing computer 10 while at the
event or game, either from a mobile or wireless user communication
device and/or from a communication device located in a kiosk, or
ATM machine, located at or near the event venue. The ticket holder
can post or provide information regarding the ticket or tickets
which he or she desires to sell or resell for the remaining portion
of the event or game, the price which he or she is willing to sell
or resell the ticket or tickets or the right to use the seat or
seats corresponding thereto for the remaining portion of the event
or game, and/or any other terms and/or conditions governing the
sale or resale of the ticket or tickets for the remaining portion
of the event or game.
[0115] Ticket issuers can also utilize the embodiment of FIGS. 2A
and 2B in order to sell or resell a ticket or tickets. In the case
of ticket issuers utilizing the apparatus 100, the ticket issuers
can access the central processing computer 10 via their respective
ticket issuer communication device 30.
[0116] With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the operation of the
apparatus 100 commences at step 200. At step 201, an user or
individual desiring to purchase a ticket or tickets for an event,
or a ticket or tickets for a remaining portion of an event, or a
ticket option(s), can access the central processing computer 10 via
any of the herein-described user communication devices.
[0117] At step 202, the user or individual can enter a request for
a ticket or tickets for an event or a request for a ticket or
tickets for a remaining portion of an event. In the case of a
ticket option(s), the user or individual can enter a request for a
ticket or tickets for an event or a request for a ticket option or
ticket options for an event or for a remaining portion of an event.
The request can be a general request for any ticket or tickets,
and/or a request for any kind or type of ticket or tickets. The
request can also be a general request for a ticket option or ticket
options and/or a request for any kind or type of ticket option or
ticket options.
[0118] The request can also include a request for a ticket or
tickets in a particular location in the event venue. The request
can also include a price which the user or individual is willing to
pay for the ticket or tickets and/or any other terms or conditions
which may govern the user's or the individual's purchase of the
ticket or tickets or the right to use the ticket or tickets for any
remaining portion of the event. At step 202, the user's or the
individual's request is also transmitted to the central processing
computer 10.
[0119] At step 203, the central processing computer 10 can receive
and process the user's or the individual's request. At step 203,
the central processing computer 10 can identify any ticket or
tickets which may satisfy the user's or the individual's request
and/or can identify any available ticket of tickets which may be
available. In the case of a ticket option or ticket options, the
central processing computer 10, at step 203, can identify any
ticket option or ticket options which may satisfy the user's or the
individual's request and/or can identify any available ticket
option or ticket options which may be available.
[0120] At step 204, the central processing computer 10 can generate
a ticket availability report or message. The ticket availability
report can contain information regarding the ticket or tickets, the
location of the ticket or tickets in the respective event or event
venue, the price of the ticket or tickets, a video clip or image of
the view from the ticket location, and/or any other terms or
conditions governing the sale or resale of the ticket or
tickets.
[0121] The price or prices of the respective ticket or tickets can
change in any appropriate manner which the market may bear or
allow, and/or which may be dictated by the ticket holder, prior to
and up to the start of the event. The price or prices of the
respective ticket or tickets can also change in any appropriate
manner which the market may bear or allow, and/or which may be
dictated by the ticket holder, during the course of the event. For
example, the price of a ticket may decrease after the just before
the event starts, after the event starts, and/or during the course
of the event. Ticket price or pricing can be determined by the
ticket issuer, the ticket holder, and/or in any other appropriate
manner.
[0122] The ticket availability report can also contain information
regarding the event, a status of the event in progress, and/or any
other information regarding the event or venue which may be of
interest to the user or individual.
[0123] In the case of a ticket option or ticket options, the
central processing computer 10 can, at step 204, generate a ticket
option availability report or message which can contain any of the
above-described information which may be relevant to a ticket
option or ticket options.
[0124] At step 205, the central processing computer 10 can transmit
the ticket availability report to the user communication device 20.
In the case of a ticket option or ticket options, the central
processing computer 10 can, at step 205, transmit the ticket option
availability report to the user communication device 20. At step
206, the user communication device 20 can receive and process the
ticket availability report. In the case of a ticket option or
ticket options, the user communication device 20 can receive and
process the ticket option availability report, at step 206.
[0125] At step 207, the user or individual can review the
information contained in the ticket availability report and enter a
response containing information regarding whether or not the user
or individual desires to purchase a ticket or tickets which are
identified therein as being for sale or resale. In the case of a
ticket option or ticket options, the user or individual can, at
step 207, review the information contained in the ticket option
availability report and enter a response containing information
regarding whether or not the user or individual desires to purchase
a ticket option or ticket options which are identified therein as
being for sale or resale.
[0126] If the user or individual desires to purchase a ticket or
tickets, the user's or the individual's response can contain
information regarding the ticket or tickets which he or she desires
to purchase, the price he or she is willing to pay, a payment
identifier, a credit card account number, a charge card account
number, a debit card account number, a checking account number, a
financial account number, an electronic money account number,
and/or any other payment information, and/or any other information
related to purchasing the ticket or tickets. In the case of a
ticket option or ticket options, the user's or individual's
response can contain any of the above-described information which
may be relevant to the purchase of a ticket option or ticket
options.
[0127] In the case of utilization in conjunction with a public
kiosk-based or ATM-based user communication device 20, the user or
individual can also insert money or cash into the respective user
communication device 20.
[0128] At step 208, the user's or the individual's response can be
transmitted to the central processing computer 10. At step 209, the
central processing computer can receive and process the user's or
the individual's response. At step 210, the central processing
computer 10 can determine whether the user or individual desires to
purchase a ticket or tickets. In the case of a ticket option or
ticket options, the central processing computer 10 can, at step
210, determine whether the user or individual desires to purchase a
ticket option or ticket options. If, at step 210, it is determined
that the user or individual does not desire to purchase a ticket or
tickets, and/or a ticket option or ticket options, then the
operation of the central processing computer 10 will cease at step
211.
[0129] If, at step 210, it is determined the user or individual
desires to purchase a ticket or tickets, and/or a ticket option or
ticket options, then the central processing computer 10 will
proceed to step 212 and process the purchase of the ticket or
tickets, and/or process the purchase of the ticket option or ticket
options. At step 212, the central processing computer 10 will
process the payment for the purchase of the ticket or tickets,
and/or process the purchase of a ticket option or ticket
options.
[0130] At step 213, the central processing computer 10 can
consummate the transaction by effectuating payment to the ticket
holder, and/or to a ticket option holder, such as by depositing
payment for the ticket or tickets into a respective financial
account corresponding to the ticket holder and/or the ticket option
holder. The central processing computer 10 can also effectuate any
withdrawal(s) from a financial account(s) of the user or
individual, if applicable. The central processing computer 10 can
also effectuate payment to any third party facilitators or ticket
issuers, or any other third parties who are or who may have earned
a commission for facilitating the sale or for assisting in
facilitating the sale. For example, a provider of the kiosk-based
user communication device may earn a commission for facilitating
the sale or resale.
[0131] At step 213, the central processing computer 10 can also
generate a notification message for the ticket holder and/or the
ticket option holder in order to notify him or her of the sale or
resale of the ticket or tickets, and/or to notify him or her of the
sale or resale of the ticket options ticket options.
[0132] The notification message can include information regarding
the ticket or tickets sold as well as the price received for the
ticket or tickets. In the case of a ticket option or ticket
options, the notification message can include information regarding
the ticket option or ticket options sold as well as the price
received for the ticket option or ticket options. The central
processing computer 10 can also, at step 213, transmit the
notification message to the user communication device associated
with the ticket holder and/or the ticket option holder.
[0133] The notification message can be any one or more of a beeper
or pager message(s), an instant messaging message(s), a telephone
call, a telephone message, an e-mail message(s), an electronic data
transmission(s), and/or any other suitable communication(s).
[0134] At step 213, the central processing computer 10 can also
transmit the information for or regarding the ticket or tickets, to
the user communication device 20. In the case of a ticket option or
ticket options, the central processing computer 10 can, at step
213, transmit the information for or regarding the ticket option or
ticket options, to the user communication device 20.
[0135] In the case of a kiosk-based user communication device 20,
or a computer or communication device having a printer associated
therewith and/or integrated therewith, the ticket information can
be printed out in hard copy form at the user communication device
20 and can be utilized as a conventional ticket. In the case of a
ticket option or ticket options, the ticket option information can
also be printed out in hard copy form at the user communication
device 20 and can be utilized in any appropriate manner.
[0136] In the case of a computer or communication device which does
not have a printer associated therewith, the ticket and/or ticket
information can be displayed and/or stored for display to event or
venue personnel in order to evidence the user's or the individual's
purchase of the ticket or tickets. When displayed on the user's or
the individual's communication device 10 the ticket information can
constitute an electronic ticket for the event. In a similar manner,
ticket option information can also be displayed and/or stored for
display as evidence of the ticket option.
[0137] The electronic ticket information can also include a
purchase confirmation code or number which can be utilized to
obtain hard copy tickets at a user communication device 20 located
at the event or event venue, at a ticket issuer communication
device 30, and/or at a central processing computer 10. For example,
an user or individual can obtain tickets via a wireless user
communication device, and utilize the information associated
therewith in order to obtain hard copy tickets at the stadium of a
sporting event or ball game. In a similar manner, electronic ticket
option information can also include a purchase confirmation code or
number which can be utilized to obtain hard copy ticket options at
a user communication device 20 located at the event or event venue,
at a ticket issuer communication device 30, and/or at a central
processing computer 10.
[0138] The preferred embodiment of FIGS. 2A and 2B can be utilized
by an user or individual in order to purchase a ticket or tickets
for an event at any time. The preferred embodiment of FIGS. 2A and
2B can also be utilized by an user or individual in order to
upgrade his or her ticket or tickets, and/or seat or seats
corresponding thereto, during an event and/or prior to the
conclusion or completion of the event. For example, in the case of
a ticket upgrade, a user or individual seated according to a
certain ticket can upgrade his or her ticket or tickets and/or
seating location during the event by purchasing an available ticket
for a more desirable seating location.
[0139] In a similar manner, the preferred embodiment of FIGS. 2A
and 2B can also be utilized by a user or individual in order to
purchase a ticket option or ticket options for an event at any
time, and/or to upgrade a ticket option or ticket options at any
time.
[0140] Thereafter, the operation of the apparatus 100 and/or the
central processing computer 10 will proceed to, and cease at, step
211.
[0141] In another preferred embodiment and as described above, the
apparatus 100 of FIGS. 2A and 2B can be utilized in the same, a
similar, and/or an analogous, manner in order to sell or resell
options for tickets for any of the events or venues described
herein. The ticket options can be priced in any appropriate manner
by any of the herein-described ticket holders and/or ticket
issuers. The ticket options can also be priced according to, and/or
by utilizing, financial options pricing models. Applicant
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter and teachings
of Options, Futures, and Other Derivatives, Third Edition, John C.
Hull, Prentice-Hall, 1997. Applicant also incorporates by reference
herein the subject matter and teachings of Futures, Options. &
Swaps, Second Edition, Robert W. Kolb, Blackwell, 1997. Applicant
also incorporates by reference herein the subject matter and
teachings of The Handbook of Equity Derivatives, Revised Edition,
Jack Clark Francis, et al., Wiley 2000.
[0142] The apparatus 100 can also process option information which
can include the term structure of the option, the option price,
and/or any other information related to the option or option sale.
The apparatus 100 can be utilized in the same, a similar, and/or an
analogous manner, as described in the operational steps 200 through
213 in order to sell or resell options for tickets for any of the
herein-described events or venues.
[0143] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of
the present invention can also be utilized in order to provide
notification of the availability of a ticket or tickets for sale or
resale. FIG. 3 illustrates another preferred embodiment method of
utilizing the apparatus of the present invention, in flow diagram
form.
[0144] In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the various users or
individuals who desire to purchase a ticket or tickets to an event
and/or who desire to purchase a ticket or tickets for a remaining
portion of an event can post their ticket requests with the central
processing computer 10 at any time. The user or individual can
access the central processing computer 10 via any of the user
communication devices 20 described herein and post their request
for a ticket or tickets to an event or venue.
[0145] The request can include information regarding the event or
venue, the ticket(s) requested, and/or the area of seating in the
venue. The ticket request can also include information regarding
the price or prices which the user or individual may be willing to
pay for the ticket(s). The ticket request information can also
include any request to purchase an option or options for any of the
tickets described herein. The ticket request information can also
include information regarding any date(s) and/or time(s)
limitations, requirements, and/or deadlines.
[0146] The central processing computer 10 can receive, process,
and/or store, the ticket request information in the database of the
central processing computer 10.
[0147] The operation of the apparatus 100, as described herein with
reference to FIG. 3, can be utilized to provide notification
regarding the availability of a ticket or tickets for sale or
resale as well as to provide notification regarding the
availability of a ticket option or options for sale or resale.
[0148] With reference to FIG. 3, the operation of the apparatus 100
commences at step 300. At step 301, the central processing computer
10 will await the occurrence of a searching event. The searching
event can be any event which can result in a need or desire for a
ticket holder to sell or resell a ticket or tickets or a need or
desire for an user or individual to purchase a ticket or tickets.
In the case of ticket options, the searching event can be any event
which can result in a need or desire for a ticket holder to sell or
resell a ticket option or options or a need or desire for an user
or individual to purchase a ticket option or options.
[0149] The searching event can also be a posting of a ticket or
tickets for sale or resale and/or a posting of a request to buy a
ticket or tickets. The searching event can also be defined as,
and/or be programmed to be performed at, a pre-determined time(s)
prior to an event, at pre-determined times during an event, upon a
ticket holder leaving an event prior to completion or conclusion,
and/or upon a ticket holder notifying the central processing
computer 10 that he or she will no longer be utilizing a ticket or
tickets. The searching event can also be any other occurrence,
elapsing of a period of time, and/or a point(s) of progression
through an event, which can be defined as triggering a search of
the available tickets for sale or resale in conjunction with a
request to purchase a ticket or tickets.
[0150] At step 302, the central processing computer 10 will process
the information regarding the ticket or tickets which are available
for sale or resale in conjunction with the ticket requests and/or
the ticket request postings from user(s) or individual(s).
[0151] At step 303, the central processing computer 10 will
generate a ticket availability notification message and transmit
same to the user communication device 20 which is associated with,
and/or which is being utilized by, the user or individual. The
ticket availability notification message can include information
regarding the available ticket or tickets, the location of the seat
or seats corresponding to the ticket, the price of the ticket or
tickets and/or any other information related to the ticket or
tickets. The ticket availability notification message can also
include a video clip or image showing a view from the respective
seat or seats corresponding to the ticket or tickets. The ticket
availability notification message can also include or contain any
of the information described herein as being contained in the
herein-described ticket availability report or message.
[0152] The ticket availability message can also contain information
regarding the event, a status of the event in progress, and/or any
other information regarding the event or venue which may be of
interest to the user or individual.
[0153] At step 303, the central processing computer 10 can also
generate a ticket buyer availability message and transmit same to
the user communication device 20 associated with or being utilized
by the ticket holder.
[0154] At step 304, the user or individual can receive and review
the information contained in the ticket availability notification
message and decide whether or not to purchase any ticket or tickets
which are identified therein. If the user or individual desires to
purchase a ticket or tickets, the user or individual, at step 305,
can transmit an appropriate message to the central processing
computer 10.
[0155] In another preferred embodiment, the user or individual can
be provided with contact information for or regarding the ticket
holder. In this embodiment, the user or individual can contact the
ticket holder and the two parties can thereafter communicate with
each other and/or enter in a transaction involving the tickets
independently of the central processing computer 10.
[0156] At step 306, the central processing computer 10 can receive
and process the user's or the individual's message containing the
purchase order and process and/or consummate the transaction
involving the purchase of the ticket or tickets. At step 306, the
central processing computer 10 can consummate the transaction by
effectuating payment to the ticket holder such as by depositing
payment for the ticket or tickets into a respective financial
account corresponding to the ticket holder. The central processing
computer 10 can also effectuate any withdrawal(s) from a financial
account(s) of the user or individual, if applicable. The central
processing computer 10 can also effectuate payment to any third
party facilitators or ticket issuers, or any other third parties
who are or who may have earned a commission for facilitating the
sale or for assisting in facilitating the sale.
[0157] At step 306, the central processing computer 10 can also
generate a notification message for the ticket holder in order to
notify him or her of the sale or resale of the ticket or tickets.
The notification message can include information regarding the
ticket or tickets sold as well as the price received for the ticket
or tickets. The central processing computer 10 can also, at step
306, transmit the notification message to the user communication
device associated with the ticket holder.
[0158] At step 306, the central processing computer 10 can also
transmit the information for or regarding the ticket or tickets to
the user communication device 20. In the case of a kiosk-based user
communication device 20, or a computer or communication device
having a printer associated therewith and/or integrated therewith,
the ticket information can be printed out in hard copy form at the
user communication device 20 and be utilized as a conventional
ticket.
[0159] In the case of a computer or communication device which does
not have a printer associated therewith, the ticket and/or ticket
information can be displayed and/or stored for display to event or
venue personnel in order to evidence the user's or the individual's
purchase of the ticket or tickets. When displayed on the user's or
the individual's communication device 10 the ticket information can
constitute an electronic ticket for the event.
[0160] The electronic ticket information can also include a
purchase confirmation code or number which can be utilized to
obtain hard copy tickets at a user communication device 20 located
at the event or event venue, at a ticket issuer communication
device 30, and/or at a central processing computer 10. For example,
a user or individual can obtain tickets via a wireless user
communication device, and utilize the information associated
therewith in order to obtain hard copy tickets at the stadium of a
sporting event or ball game.
[0161] Thereafter, the operation of the apparatus 100 will cease at
step 307.
[0162] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of
the present invention can also be utilized in order to provide
notification of the availability of a buyer for a ticket or
tickets. FIG. 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment method of
utilizing the apparatus of the present invention, in flow diagram
form.
[0163] In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the various ticket holders can
post ticket information regarding the ticket or tickets which they
desire to sell or resell with the central processing computer 10 at
any time. The ticket holder can access the central processing
computer 10 via any of the user communication devices 20 described
herein and can post the ticket or tickets to an event or venue as
being for sale or resale.
[0164] The ticket information can include information regarding the
event or venue, the ticket(s) for sale, and/or the area of seating
in the venue. The ticket information can also include information
regarding the price or prices which the ticket holder desires to
receive for the ticket or tickets. The ticket information can also
include an offer to sell an option or options for any of the
tickets described herein. The ticket information can also include
information regarding any date(s) and/or time(s) limitations,
requirements, and/or deadlines, relating to the ticket(s)
offering.
[0165] The central processing computer 10 can receive, process,
and/or store, the ticket information in the database of the central
processing computer 10.
[0166] The operation of the apparatus 100, as described herein with
reference to FIG. 4, can be utilized to provide notification
regarding the availability of a buyer of a ticket or tickets as
well as to provide notification regarding the availability of a
buyer of a ticket option or options.
[0167] With reference to FIG. 4, the operation of the apparatus 100
commences at step 400. At step 401, the central processing computer
10 will await the occurrence of a searching event. The searching
event can be any event which can result in a need or desire for a
user or individual to purchase a ticket or tickets or a need or
desire for a ticket holder to sell or resell a ticket or tickets.
In the case of ticket options, the searching event can be any event
which can result in a need or desire for a user or individual to
purchase a ticket option or options or a need or desire for a
ticket holder to sell or resell a ticket option or options.
[0168] The searching event can also be a posting of a user's or
individual's request for a ticket or tickets and/or a posting of a
ticket or tickets for sale or resale by a ticket holder. The
searching event can also be defined as, and/or be programmed to be
performed at, a pre-determined time(s) prior to an event, at
pre-determined times during an event, upon a ticket holder leaving
an event prior to completion or conclusion, and/or upon a ticket
holder notifying the central processing computer 10 that he or she
will no longer be utilizing a ticket or tickets.
[0169] The searching event can also be any other occurrence,
elapsing of a period of time, and/or a point(s) of progression
through an event, which can be defined as triggering a search of
ticket requests in conjunction with a ticket or tickets which are
available for sale or resale.
[0170] At step 402, the central processing computer 10 will process
the information regarding a request for a ticket or tickets in
conjunction with information regarding the ticket or tickets which
are posted and/or which are available for sale or resale.
[0171] At step 403, the central processing computer 10 will
generate a ticket buyer availability notification message and
transmit same to the user communication device 20 which is
associated with, and/or which is being utilized by, the ticket
holder. The ticket buyer availability notification message can
include information regarding the available user or individual
desirous of purchasing the respective ticket or tickets, the price
the user or individual is willing to pay for the ticket or tickets,
and/or any other information related to the ticket or tickets
and/or to the purchase of same.
[0172] At step 403, the central processing computer 10 can also
generate a ticket availability message and transmit same to the
user communication device 20 associated with or being utilized by
the user or individual interested in purchasing the ticket or
tickets.
[0173] At step 404, the ticket holder can review the information
contained in the ticket buyer availability notification message and
decide whether or not to sell the ticket or tickets to the user or
individual. If ticket holder desires to sell the ticket or tickets,
the ticket holder, at step 405, can transmit an appropriate
seller's message to the central processing computer 10. The
seller's message can contain information regarding instructions for
selling the tickets to the user or individual.
[0174] The seller's message can also contain a counter-offer such
as a counter-offer offering to sell the ticket or tickets at a
different price. In the case of a counter-offer being included in
the seller's message, the central processing computer 10 can so
notify the user or individual and any of the above-described steps
can be repeated until a deal is reached between the two
parties.
[0175] In another preferred embodiment, the ticket holder can be
provided with contact information for or regarding the user or
individual. In this embodiment, the ticket holder can contact the
user or individual and the two parties can thereafter communicate
with each other and/or enter in a transaction involving the tickets
independently of the central processing computer 10.
[0176] At step 406, the central processing computer 10 can receive
and process the seller's message containing and can consummate the
transaction involving the sale or resale of the ticket or tickets.
At step 406, the central processing computer 10 can process and/or
consummate the transaction by effectuating payment to the ticket
holder such as by depositing payment for the ticket or tickets into
a respective financial account corresponding to the ticket holder.
The central processing computer 10 can also effectuate any
withdrawal(s) from a financial account(s) of the user of
individual, if applicable. The central processing computer 10 can
also effectuate payment to any third party facilitators or ticket
issuers, or any other third parties who are or who may have earned
a commission for facilitating the sale or for assisting in
facilitating the sale.
[0177] At step 406, the central processing computer 10 can also
generate a notification message for the user or individual in order
to notify him or her of his or her purchase of the ticket or
tickets. The notification message can include information regarding
the ticket or tickets purchased as well as the price paid for the
ticket or tickets. The central processing computer 10 can also, at
step 406, transmit the notification message to the user
communication device associated with the user or individual.
[0178] At step 406, the central processing computer 10 can also
transmit the information for or regarding the ticket or tickets to
the user communication device 20 of the user or individual
purchasing the ticket or tickets. In the case of a kiosk-based user
communication device 20, or a computer or communication device
having a printer associated therewith and/or integrated therewith,
the ticket information can be printed out in hard copy form at the
user communication device 20 and be utilized as a conventional
ticket.
[0179] In the case of a computer or communication device which does
not have a printer associated therewith, the ticket and/or ticket
information can be displayed and/or stored for display to event or
venue personnel in order to evidence the user's or the individual's
purchase of the ticket or tickets. When displayed on the user's or
the individual's communication device 10 the ticket information can
constitute an electronic ticket for the event.
[0180] The electronic ticket information can also include a
purchase confirmation code or number which can be utilized to
obtain hard copy tickets at a user communication device 20 located
at the event or event venue, at a ticket issuer communication
device 30, and/or at a central processing computer 10.
[0181] Thereafter, the operation of the apparatus 100 will cease at
step 407.
[0182] In another preferred embodiment, a central processing
computer(s) 10 can be associated with, and/or can be operated by,
any of the ticket issuers as defined and/or as described herein. A
central processing computer(s) 10 can also be associated with,
and/or can be operated by, any of the ticket holders as defined
and/or as described herein. A central processing computer(s) 10 can
also be associated with, and/or can be operated by, any of the
users or individuals as defined and/or as described herein.
[0183] In another preferred embodiment, any of the processing
routines and/or functionality, described herein as being performed
by the central processing computer 10 can also be performed in
whole and/or in part by any of the herein-described user
communication devices 20 and/or can also be performed in whole or
in part by any of the herein-described ticket issuer communication
devices 30.
[0184] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
interactions, negotiations, and/or deals reached, between any of
the users, individuals, entities, or parties, can be monitored
and/or be recorded by the central processing computer 10 and be
stored in the database of the central processing computer 10.
[0185] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
central processing computer 10 can record and store data and/or
information regarding any and/or all of the transactions, sales,
re-sales, and/or purchases, involving any of the herein-described
tickets and/or ticket options (hereinafter referred to as
"transaction information"). The transaction information can be
utilized for any appropriate purpose(s) such as, but not limited
to, subsequent pricing of any of the herein-described tickets or
ticket options, for conducting marketing studies, for conducting
consumer behavior studies, for conducting advertisement efforts
and/or activities, for conducting marketing efforts and/or
activities, and/or for any other appropriate purpose, effort, or
activity.
[0186] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the messages, notification messages, reports, and/or
transmissions, described herein, can be any one or more of a beeper
or pager message(s), an instant messaging message(s), a telephone
call, a telephone message, an e-mail message(s), an electronic data
transmission(s), and/or any other suitable communication(s).
[0187] The apparatus 100 and/or the central processing computer 10
can administer and/or maintain a financial account(s) for, or on
behalf of, any of the herein-described and/or herein-defined users,
individuals, ticket holders, and/or ticket issuers, and/or other
users, individuals, or entities, who or which utilize the apparatus
and method of the present invention. The financial accounts may be
bank accounts, electronic money accounts, credit accounts, debit
account, charge accounts, and/or any other accounts for
facilitating financial transactions.
[0188] The apparatus 100 and/or the central processing computer 10
can make a payment and/or a transfer for, or on behalf of, any of
the herein-described and/or herein-defined users, individuals,
ticket holders, and/or ticket issuers, and/or other users,
individuals, or entities, and/or can receive a payment and/or a
transfer for, or on behalf of, any of the herein-described and/or
herein-defined users, individuals, ticket holders, and/or ticket
issuers, and/or other users, individuals, or entities, whichever
the case may be.
[0189] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of
the present invention can be utilized to provide for the bidding
for, and/or the auctioning off of, any of the herein-described
tickets and/or ticket options.
[0190] The apparatus and method of the present invention can also
be utilized to provide for the bidding for, and/or the auctioning
off of, any of the herein-described tickets and/or ticket options.
Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the subject
matter of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/120,883
which teaches an apparatus and method for effectuating commerce in
a network environment. Applicant also hereby incorporates by
reference herein the subject matter of U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/498,143 which teaches and discloses an apparatus and method
for effectuating commerce in a network environment.
[0191] When utilized to perform bidding and/or auctioning
activities, the respective users, individuals, ticket holders,
and/or ticket issuers, and/or other users, individuals, or
entities, can direct their respective bidding activity or
activities and/or auctioning activity or activities to any single,
group of, and/or combination of any, users, individuals, ticket
holders, and/or ticket issuers, and/or other users, individuals, or
entities.
[0192] The bidding and/or auctioning activities can be directed to
any of the users, individuals, ticket holders, and/or ticket
issuers, and/or other users, individuals, or entities, which may be
specified and/or identified by or from any of the various searching
routines described herein.
[0193] Any and/or all of the respective bidding activities and/or
auctioning activities can be effected via e-mail messages,
electronic message transmissions, electronic catalogs, electronic
coupons, pager messages, facsimile messages, telephone calls or
messages, physical mail delivery, and/or via any other method,
means and/or mode of communication.
[0194] In another preferred embodiment, as well as in any of the
embodiments described herein, intelligent agents, software agents,
mobile agents, and/or related technologies, can be utilized in
conjunction with the present invention. The respective intelligent
agent(s), software agent(s), mobile agent(s), (hereinafter referred
to collectively as "intelligent agent" or "intelligent agents") can
be programmed and/or designed to act on behalf of the respective
users, individuals, ticket holders, and/or ticket issuers, and/or
other users, individuals, or entities, so as to act on behalf of
the respective user, individual, entity, or party, as well as to
perform any of processing functions and/or other functions
described herein.
[0195] The intelligent agent can act on behalf of the respective
user, individual, entity, or party, in various related interactions
and/or other activities which are described as being performed
herein and/or which may be incidental and/or related thereto.
Therefore, the present invention also provides an agent-based
apparatus and method for selling or reselling tickets and/or ticket
options for an event or venue.
[0196] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter of the Agent Sourcebook, A Complete Guide to
Desktop, Internet and Intranet Agents, by Alper Caglayan and Colin
Harrison, Wiley Computer Publishing, 1997. Applicant also
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter of Cool
Intelligent Agents For The Net, by Leslie L. Lesnick with Ralph E.
Moore, IDG Books Worldwide, Inc. 1997.
[0197] The apparatus of the present invention, in any and/or all of
the embodiments described herein, can also be programmed to be
self-activating and/or activated automatically.
[0198] The apparatus of the present invention can also be
programmed in order to automatically generate and/or transmit any
of the e-mail messages, electronic message transmissions,
electronic notification transmissions, electronic catalogs,
electronic coupons, and/or any of the communications, which are
described herein, between any of the users, individuals, entities,
and/or parties, which utilize the present invention.
[0199] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
electronic messages, such as e-mail messages, electronic message
transmissions, pager messages, telephone calls or messages,
facsimile transmissions, etc., which are generated by the central
processing computer 10, and/or any of the other computer 20, and/or
30, can contain appropriate hyperlinks, and/or forwarding
information, to the sending party, to another electronic message
and/or e-mail, to a third party, to other information, and/or to
another information source.
[0200] The present invention, in any and/or all of the
herein-described embodiments, can utilize electronic commerce
technologies and security methods, techniques and technologies, as
described and as set forth in Electronic Commerce Technical,
Business, and Legal Issues, Nabil R. Adam, et al. Prentice Hall,
1999 and Web Security & Commerce, Simson Garfinkel with Gene
Spafford, O'Reilly 1997, the subject matter of which are hereby
incorporated by reference herein.
[0201] The communications networks and/or systems on, or over,
which the present invention may be utilized, can include any one or
combination of telecommunication networks or systems, satellite
communication networks or systems, radio communication networks or
systems, digital communication networks or systems, digital
satellite communication networks or systems, personal
communications services networks or systems, cable television
networks or systems, broadband communication networks or systems,
low earth orbiting satellite (LEOs) networks or systems, wireless
communication networks or systems, wireless Internet networks or
systems, wireless World Wide Web networks or systems, as well as
in, or on any internets and/or intranets, the Internet, the World
Wide Web, and any other suitable communication network or
system.
[0202] The data and/or information, described as being stored in
the database of the central processing computer 10 and/or in any of
the other databases described herein, can be continuously updated
so as to store the latest values for the data and/or information
and can be stored and be made available for future processing
routines.
[0203] Any and/or all of the data and/or information described
herein, which is stored in the database of the central processing
computer 10, or in the collection of databases, can be linked via
relational database techniques and/or via any appropriate database
management techniques. The data and/or information, in the
preferred embodiments, can be updated via inputs from any of the
computers and/or communication devices 10, 20, and/or 30, and/or
external computers or communication devices, described herein, in
real-time, and/or via dynamically linked database management
techniques. The above-described updates can also be provided from
other information sources via the communication network.
[0204] While the present invention has been described and
illustrated in various preferred and alternate embodiments, such
descriptions are merely illustrative of the present invention and
are not to be construed to be limitations thereof. In this regard,
the present invention encompasses all modifications, variations
and/or alternate embodiments, with the scope of the present
invention being limited only by the claims which follow.
* * * * *